In October 2004 the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 came into force which placed the Fire and Rescue National Framework on a statutory footing. The Act introduced a requirement to promote fire safety, which will help save more lives and reduce injuries from fire. It also places on a statutory footing other activities previously outside of the Fire Services remit, including rescue from road traffic collisions, response to serious environmental disasters and for dealing with large scale emergencies.

The Act replaces the Fire Services Act 1947 and is intended to drive forward the Government's agenda to establish a modern and efficient Fire and Rescue Service designed to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century.

Since 1961 a number of Fire Safety Acts and Regulations (Statutes) have been legislated which fire and rescue authorities have been given direct responsibility to enforce. The current statutes are as follows:-

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
• The Fire Safety and Safety of Places of Sport Act 1987
• The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996
• The Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996

The Fire and Rescue Authority is also a statutory consultee for other enforcing authorities (usually District and Borough councils) for statute under their responsibility. Some current notable statutes are as follows:-

• The Licensing Act 2003
• The Housing Act 2004
• The Gambling Act 2005
• The Building Act 1984
• The Surrey Act 1985

If you require further information please contact your local area protection team.